su host family program
Dear  SU Members

Within the scope of  SU Exchange programs, the Sabancı University International Relations Office has launched a Host Family Program.

The program brings Incoming Exchange students and SU Member families together in order for them to get to know each other closer in a family environment, as well as to assist foreign students in adapting to the local culture and lifestyle through various social and cultural activities.

Who can become a SU Host Family?

  • -SU Families living in Istanbul
  • -SU Families of which at least one member must speak at least one foreign language (preferably English)
  • -SU Family member who has a university degree

What can be done together?

This Program aims to facilitate international exchange students's swift adaptation to the local culture and provides the basis for them to meanwhile have a good time. The SU host families are expected to plan the activities together with the student. Nevertheless, it is expected that family-student get togethers take place at least once a month. Within this scope, SU host families are expected to invite the student and include him/her in their ongoing activities, some are indicated in below, or to come up with new activities that might be of interest to the student.

  • -concerts
  • -trips
  • -dinners at home
  • -sportive activities
  • -national and religious celebrations together
  • -birthday celebrations
  • -other cultural, artistic or social activities

Things to be considered

  • -Host families are not expected to provide accommodation to the student.
  • -Neither host families nor students are paid for participation.
  • -Host families have no financial obligation to the student whatsoever. However, it is expected that the student be considered a "guest" therefore be treated accordingly. (For example, when going out for a dinner or a concert together, the student should not be asked to pay for his/her own expense)
  • -The student can not be forced to participate in an activity organized by the SU host family, or to organize an activity.
  • -In case of discrimination against the student's native language, religion, ethnicity, race or gender, the SU host family status is immediately terminated.
  • -The student and host family jointly decide on the time and scope of the activity through direct and effective communication.
  • -In case of a disharmony between the student and his/her SU host family, a new match can be arranged by the Office, depending on the available resources

Duration & Procedure

The time period for a host family status will be determined by the participant. However, the period can be extended upon request. International Relations Office sets the matching based on the preferences of the host families. After the first meeting, which will be organized by the Office, the students and their SU host families are expected to contact directly.

The SU host families and/or students decide whether to extent or terminate their relationship.

Participation and Application

If you wish to participate in SU Host Family Program, please fill the application form  until October 4th,2024

Looking forward to your applications!

Sabancı University
International Relations Office
Contact: Gözde Doğmuş (IRO) Email: iro-partners@sabanciuniv.edu Extension Number: 9627